A Seventh Olympic Start
Olympic careers rarely span decades.
Sarah Schleper is preparing for her seventh Olympic Games — the only female alpine skier ever to reach that milestone. Her career has stretched across eras, teams, and generations of the sport.
This time, history looks different.
From Finish Area to Start Gate
Her son, Lasse Gaxiola, has qualified for the same Olympic Games, making them the first mother and son to compete in the same Olympic edition.
Both earned their spots.
Many will remember Lienz in 2011, when Schleper carried a young Lasse to the finish in what appeared to be her retirement run. Instead of an ending, it became a turning point.
Now, that child in her arms is an Olympian himself.
They arrive at these Games not as a symbolic story, but as two athletes with their own expectations — a rare milestone built on longevity, resilience, and staying in the fight.
To read the full story — including Schleper’s return to racing, the independent road back to the Olympics, and how this shared moment came full circle — visit Shred Optics here:
About the Author: SR Staff Report
